attorney checklist to determine who to represent in a start-up business

by Ms. Alfreda Armstrong Jr. 10 min read

What are the legal issues need to consider by your startup?

Legal Basics that Every Indian Startup Should KnowFormalizing a business structure and founders agreement. ... Applying for business licenses. ... Understanding taxation and accounting laws. ... Adhering to labour laws. ... Ensuring protection of intellectual property. ... Ensuring effective contract management.More items...•Dec 4, 2020

Why should a lawyer be consulted when starting a new business?

These professionals have seen first-hand the mistakes entrepreneurs make, and know how to help you avoid them. It is best to consult with your attorney early on in the process, before you formally organize the company; the foundational issues are critical to the long-term success of your new venture.Jan 14, 2013

How does an entrepreneur choose an attorney?

Keep It Legal ® BlogFigure out when you need to hire a lawyer. ... Focus on the type of lawyer you need. ... Find a lawyer who understands – or is willing to learn about – your market or niche. ... Pick a law firm of the right size. ... Choose a lawyer who brings other resources to the table.More items...•Jun 2, 2015

Do startups need a lawyer?

All startups should hire two professionals early only to succeed—a lawyer and an accountant. These two professionals are vital in the starting stages of a business. We recommend hiring both of these professionals as early as possible.

Which kind of lawyer makes the most money?

Types Of Lawyers That Make The Most MoneyMedical Lawyers – Average $138,431. Medical lawyers make one of the highest median wages in the legal field. ... Intellectual Property Attorneys – Average $128,913. ... Trial Attorneys – Average $97,158. ... Tax Attorneys – Average $101,204. ... Corporate Lawyers – $116,361.Dec 18, 2020

What is the difference between corporate law and business law?

Business Law deals with the elemental legalities which are required for an organisation's foundation whereas Corporate Law lays emphasis on the operations, actions, and validity of an organisation. In simple phrases, Corporate Lawyers write the contracts and business lawyers evaluation these contracts.Oct 24, 2020

How do start my own business?

Find a business idea.Write a business plan.Choose a business structure.Get a federal tax ID.Open a business bank account.Get financing to fund your business.Get a business credit card.Build a website.More items...

What do you know about business law?

Business law determines the formal process of establishment of a business organization and regulations related to the selling of corporate entities. It also includes rights assignment, drafting, and work delegations, breach of contract, transactions, contracts, and penalties for violation of the agreement.

How do I hire an attorney?

It's important to find a lawyer who has relevant experience with the legal area that you need. Take time to search for the right lawyer. Ask family, friends, or co-workers for recommendations. Check with your state and local bar associations.

What is a startup attorney?

A startup lawyer is an essential partner to a new business, making sure you're in compliance with applicable legal business/industry requirements and preventing legal problems that could hurt your business down the line.

What is a good business identity?

Getting a good business identity is something that you will want to spend time on. You might want to order some business cards, letterhead and advertising materials for your corporation. A competently fashioned symbol can make your business look established and professional.

What are the four legal structures?

You essentially have four choices when choosing a legal structure: Partnership, Partnership, Sole Proprietorship, S-Corporation or Corporation.

Why is it important to get the word out about your business?

It is important that you need to get the word out and generate a marketing strategy for your services and products that targets your model client . The more that people know, the better it will be for your business so don’t be shy.

How long should I keep business documents?

Business documents usually are essential to be retained for three years, as well as: an inventory of all proprietors and lectures, copies of all formation papers, financial statements, yearly reports, alterations or changes to the corporation. Corporate Filings and All Tax should be kept for at best three years.

Why is it important to have a strong brand?

Getting a strong brand is essential to client faithfulness and sales that are higher. Select a name for your business or select a product name you know you can brand. Agree on your “brand message,” this message will be likewise recognized as your unique selling proposal or value intention.

Do I need a business license to work in a county?

A business license is an authorization permitting the business the authority to do trade in that county/city.

Do I have to record my employment with the state agency?

If you intend to hire yourself or others as a part-time or full-time worker of your corporation, then you might not have to record with the suitable State Agencies or get Unemployment Insurance or Workers Compensation Insurance (or both).

1. Pick a Name for Your Company

Before you can launch your new startup, you’ll need to choose a name for your company. Think about what you’re trying to accomplish with your business, who you’re catering to, and what services you’ll provide.

2. Get Registered with the Local Government

Before you can start providing services, you’ll want to register your company with your local government. For most startups, this just involves registering your business name with the state and your county. But you may also want to register as a particular type of company.

3. Create a Detailed Business Plan

You’ll need to write a detailed business plan to attract investors and set your brand up for long-term success. This involves figuring out your company’s mission and writing down the steps you’ll take to accomplish this mission. Remember, it’s better to get down with the details than it is to be brief.

4. Figure Out Funding

Once you’ve got your business plan in place, you’ll want to figure out how you’ll pay for your company. There’s no wrong answer here. If you have personal savings or are willing to take out a personal loan to get things off the ground, that’s fine.

5. Find a Location

If you are self-employed, you can run your company out of a spare bedroom in your home. But if you’re planning on hiring employees or need to meet with clients, you’ll want to find a business location. If you have the budget, renting or buying a commercial property zoned for your business is a great option.

6. Speak with an Attorney

As a business owner, you’re open to possible liability issues that you may not experience outside of your startup. This means you’ll want to speak with an attorney, especially when you’re just starting out. Look for an attorney that’s familiar with your industry.

7. Separate Personal Finances from Business Finances

Though it’s tempting to use your personal bank account and credit card when you’re first starting out, it makes life difficult in the long-run. Over the course of the year, it will get incredibly tough to determine which purchases were for personal use and which were for your business.

What time does the Secretary of State need to be at your business address?

The Secretary of State needs a point of contact for your business, someone who will be available at your registered office address during typical business hours – 9am to 5pm.

What are the platforms that businesses use to make their mark?

Most successful businesses also have a robust social media presence on multiple platforms. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are all great ways to connect organically with potential customers and develop your brand voice.

What is a business plan?

A business plan lays the groundwork for your future success. It helps you analyze key elements of your business and forge pathways to achieve your goals. Here are a few things you should consider including in your business plan: 1 Executive Summary (a separate document that gives a complete overview of your business’ purpose, plans, goals, competition, opportunities, etc.) 2 Company description 3 Market Analysis (opportunities, competition, etc.) 4 Managerial or organizational structure 5 Products and/or services 6 Marketing strategies 7 Funding goals 8 Financial projections

What is a registered agent in North Carolina?

The North Carolina registered agent ensures that no important state documents, deadlines, or payments fall through the cracks, so you’ll want to choose a person or company you trust. You can choose either an individual or a business entity as your registered agent in North Carolina, but they must:

Do you need an operating agreement in North Carolina?

While operating agreements aren’t technically required in North Carolina, they are essential to your business’ stability and success. They provide a safety net in legal disputes and legitimacy in front of banks, courts, government agencies, and other businesses.

Why is it important to have a business plan?

A business plan lays the groundwork for your future success. It helps you analyze key elements of your business and forge pathways to achieve your goals.

What are the different types of business structures?

The most popular types are the sole proprietorship, general partnership, limited liability company (LLC), S corporation, and C corporation.